Wet weekend for rain-soaked UK

Britain is bracing itself for more flooding this weekend as forecasters predict further heavy downpours. The Environment Agency says nearly 300 properties have already flooded across the UK since Tuesday.

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The AA says this week has been one of its busiest for flood-related call-outs and is warning drivers to take extra precautions.

With more heavy rain forecast across the Midlands, Wales and the South West, road conditions in the affected areas are likely to only get worse as the ground is so saturated. Even if you think you know your local roads, don't be complacent, as flash flooding continues to be a real risk and is catching people out.

The AA has said there has been no sign of a reduction in the number of flood-related call-outs, and urged members of the public to think twice before taking on saturated roads.

With more heavy rain forecast across the Midlands, Wales and the South West, road conditions in the affected areas are likely to only get worse as the ground is so saturated.

Even if you think you know your local roads, don't be complacent, as flash-flooding continues to be a real risk and is catching people out.

The best advice is to stay out of flood water. It can mask a range of hazards like raised drain covers and open manholes and it's often impossible to gauge how deep it is.

We've seen hundreds of drivers get stuck this week and, as we tragically saw yesterday, as well as potentially endangering your life, if your car gets stuck, it's usually written off. Just a tiny amount of water entering the air intake can wreck an engine and it can play havoc with a vehicle's electrics.

North Wales Fire and Rescue has said it has received more than 250 calls related to flooding_ _and appealed for people to call only "if you believe lives are at risk and not just to properties being flooded when the householders are able to move upstairs or seek shelter with neighbours".

The weather and the devastation it has caused to homes, businesses and land has stoked up the famous spirit of British stoicism, as neighbours and friends rallied round to help those most in need.